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Friday, July 31, 2026

Support The Las Vegas Music Scene: Best Of Las Vegas Voting Opens August 17th 2026

 

To Vote: VoteBOLV.com

The Best of Las Vegas nominations slammed shut at midnight on Wednesday, July 29, 2026 — like the final crash of a cymbal echoing across the valley. Now the spotlight swings to the main event.

Voting fires up on August 17, 2026, 9:55 AM Pacific time, and the city gets nearly a full month to make some noise, running straight through September 10, 2026, at 11:59 PM Pacific. This is the moment when every fan, every friend, every late‑night lounge regular gets to step up and help decide who truly owns the Vegas stage.

If you want your voice heard — and you should — head to VoteBOLV.com and cast your votes. Every click is a cheer from the crowd; every ballot is a raised lighter in the dark.

The 2026 Best of Las Vegas winners will take their victory lap in the annual Best of Vegas issue of the Las Vegas Weekly later this summer. That’s where the champions get immortalized — printed, celebrated, and remembered.

Vote hard. Vote loud. And vote big for our Local Las Vegas Music Scene — the singers, musicians, bands, venues, shredders, drummers, dreamers, the shows, and die‑hard performers who keep this city’s pulse beating long after the Strip goes quiet!

{My Take}

So, crank up the amps, Vegas — this is your moment to push our hometown heroes into the spotlight. Hit VoteBOLV.com, smash that ballot like a power chord, and make sure the bands, singers, venues, and music‑makers who keep this city alive get the love they deserve!

Raise your voice. Raise your vote. Let’s show the world how loud the Local Las Vegas Music Scene can roar!

Gary England

Thursday, July 30, 2026

The Vegas Weekend Music Clock: When Fans Decide Where To Go For Their Music Pleasure

 Everything in life runs on timing — especially in the music world.

Right place, right time, right vibe!



Today’s blog focuses on that crucial moment when music fans finally choose their weekend destination. And on the other side of the stage lights, when should bands and musicians promote their shows to catch fans right as they’re making those decisions? Timing shapes both sides of the music experience.

{Info today comes from organizations, research groups, and industry analysts who study fan‑behavior timing, promo windows, and optimal announcement cycles for concerts and music events}

The Full Vegas Music Promo Timing Breakdown

Vegas doesn’t run on clocks — it runs on impulse, adrenaline, and whatever vibe hits hardest in the moment. But underneath all that neon chaos, there is a rhythm to how fans decide where they’re going on weekend nights. Bands who understand that rhythm pack rooms. Bands who don’t end up playing to empty chairs and bored bartenders. Here’s the full breakdown of how promo timing really works in Las Vegas — the city where decisions are made fast, late, and loud.

One Month Out — The Spark

A month before the gig is where you plant the seed. Fans aren’t choosing yet, but they’re absorbing. This is the moment to drop the first announcement — the “Hey, we’re coming” post. It’s not meant to convert anyone. It’s meant to get the show on their radar so when the real decision window hits, your name is already floating in their head. In Vegas, this early spark matters because the city is drowning in entertainment noise. You need that first flare just to be seen.

Two Weeks Out — The Warm‑Up

Two weeks out is when fans start shaping their weekend plans. They’re not committing, but they’re thinking. This is the moment to remind them you exist. A solid promo push here keeps your gig in the mix as they scroll through endless options — casinos, bars, lounges, tribute acts, cover bands, original bands, DJs, and every neon‑lit distraction on the Strip. This window is all about staying visible.

One Week Out — The Real Fight Begins

One week before the show is where the promo battle actually starts. Fans are choosing between venues, friends, moods, and money. This is the week where your posts matter the most. A strong, high‑energy promo blast here can tilt the scales in your favor. In Vegas, this is the moment when locals start locking in their Friday or Saturday night plans — and if you’re not in their feed, you’re not in their night.

48–72 Hours Before — The Vegas Decision Window

This is the big one. Thursday night through Saturday afternoon is when Vegas locals make their final call. Tourists do it even faster. This window is pure electricity — the moment when a single promo post can swing the entire night. A killer video clip, a sharp flyer, a hype‑driven announcement, a reminder from the venue — this is where you win or lose the crowd. If you’re quiet during this window, you’re invisible.

Day Of — The Impulse Crowd

Vegas is built on impulse. People decide what to do while they’re already out. They decide while they’re eating dinner. They decide while they’re walking past a bar. They decide while scrolling Instagram at 7 PM. A day‑of promo blast can add 10–30% more bodies to the room — sometimes more. This is the lightning strike. The last‑minute surge. The “screw it, let’s go” moment that Vegas thrives on.

The Vegas Rule: Timing Isn’t Everything — It’s the Whole Game

In most cities, promo timing is a strategy. In Vegas, it’s survival. The entertainment competition here is brutal, constant, and loud. Bands who understand the timing windows — month‑out spark, two‑week warm‑up, one‑week push, 48‑hour decision window, day‑of blast — are the ones who fill rooms, build followings, and turn gigs into events. Everyone else gets swallowed by the neon.

{My Take}

Las Vegas rewards the bands who understand its rhythm — fast decisions, late commitments, and last‑minute surges that can turn a quiet room into a full‑blown party! Nail the timing, and you’re not just promoting a gig; you’re steering the city's energy. Miss it, and the neon moves on without you. In this town, timing isn’t just part of the hustle — it’s the whole show!

It's Thursday; time for me to decide where I'm going this weekend!

Gary England


Wednesday, July 29, 2026

Best Of Las Vegas Awards Nominations Closing Tonight Wednesday July 29th 2026

Best Of Las Vegas News Flash!



If you didn’t know, Best of Las Vegas voting has been rolling since July 13, and here’s the kicker — it all shuts down tonight, Wednesday, July 29, at midnight. That means the clock is screaming, the fuse is burning, and it’s officially go‑time!

 Fans can still jump in and nominate their favorite bands, musicians, music venues, and shows across a wide range of categories. 



So hit voteBOLV.com, fire off those nominations, and make sure the bands & artists, venues, and shows you love don’t miss out on their shot!

I got mine in!

Gary England

Monday, July 27, 2026

Behind-The-Scenes With Paul Shortino & Mitch Perry: Live This Morning On Fox 5 Las Vegas More Fox 5 TV Show

 

What a monster way to blast open the week — rolling into Fox 5 Las Vegas and their ultra‑cool More Fox 5 show like you’re rolling up for a sunrise soundcheck on the Strip, amps humming, caffeine kicking, whole city stretching awake. Paul and Mitch were already locked in the Green Room, posted up like two rock assassins waiting for the cue to storm the stage. And that waiting area out front? Not just pretty — it was stage‑lit stunning, the kind of place where even the furniture looks like it’s been rehearsing for its big moment. 


Only a few minutes in and the vibe was already electric — Nicole Reynolds, one of the standout stars of More Fox 5, swooped in like a total pro, guiding the Nevada beauty pageant girls — and me — straight back to the Green Room to get staged for our moment on the show. It felt like being escorted to the wings of a rock arena right before the lights hit and the crowd roars!


The clock hits 10 and boom — Show Time. The energy flips like someone just cranked the master volume. The girls, Paul, Mitch, and I get a fast‑track tour through the station, cruising down the halls toward the More Fox 5 studio like a mini parade of backstage mischief. With only minutes to spare, we’re suddenly live. The pageant girls take the first spotlight, stepping in for their interview with Alyssa Deitsch, kicking off the segment like total pros.


Paul and Mitch slid over to the adjoining stage setup for their run‑through with Jason Feinberg, getting into that pre‑interview groove like two veterans tuning up before a big riff. Ten minutes later — quick station break, lights reset, energy rising — they were back in the spotlight with Jason, firing off a smooth, sharp interview that landed perfectly. The whole thing played out like a tight live set: no wasted motion, no missed beats, just pros doing what pros do!




After the lights dropped and the studio slipped into that post‑show hush, these three rock stars stepped right back onto the stage for one last round of shots — striking poses like the encore wasn’t over yet, and the cameras were begging for more!


After everyone crushed their part and the studio lights melted into that warm neon afterglow, one last moment rose up like a jackpot bell on Fremont — a big fan stepping in with a single request for a photo with these two legends, the kind of Vegas‑style encore you never say no to!



For Paul Shortino, Mitch Perry, and me, we’re blasting out big love and thunderous thanks to Fox 5 Las Vegas, More Fox 5, the killer camera crew, the powerhouse management team, and of course Jason Feinberg, Nicole Reynolds, and Alyssa Deitsch for delivering a full‑tilt, high‑voltage Vegas experience. 

You all straight‑up ROCK!!

Gary England

Click on the link below to watch their Interview.

*Be sure to turn the volume up on your video player.

Rock Legends Paul Shortino & Mitch Perry play Treasure Island


Sunday, July 26, 2026

The Gospel According To Rock ’n’ Roll: Today's Final Sunday Of The Month Revival At The Tuscany Suites Casino



 After cranking out four band reviews on Saturday, and a month of deadlines, my soul needed a full‑throttle spiritual rinse. So, I rolled into the Copa Room inside Tuscany Suites Casino for a little Rock ’n’ Roll Church. Lead Pastor Andrew Freeman was already posted up front, flanked by his powerhouse clergy. On lead guitar, Christian Brady. On bass, Barry Barnes. And on drums, Shon McKee.

About the lead pastor of music and his clergy staff.

Andrew Freeman — Lead Pastor

Andrew Freeman isn’t just the frontman — he’s the spiritual detonator. When he steps up to the mic, the room shifts. He’s got that preacher‑with‑a‑Marshall‑stack energy: part sermon, part scream therapy, part rock‑opera storyteller. He guides the congregation with vocal firepower, charisma, and the kind of stage command that makes you forget you’re inside a casino and not a packed arena.

Christian Brady — Lead Guitar

Christian Brady is the sonic architect — the guy who turns the “service” into a full‑body experience. His guitar work is sharp, melodic, and explosive, like he’s carving scripture into the air with every riff. He plays with that veteran confidence: no wasted motion, no filler, just pure tone and precision. When he leans into a solo, it feels like the roof lifts a little.

Barry Barnes — Bass

Barry Barnes is the heartbeat of the congregation — the low‑end minister keeping the whole room grounded. His bass lines don’t just support the music; they drive it. He’s got that steady, unshakeable presence onstage, the kind of player who locks in and makes everything feel bigger, tighter, and more alive. If the band is a machine, he’s the engine block.

Shon McKee — Drums

Shon McKee is the thunder behind the pulpit — the rhythmic pastor who keeps the service marching forward. His drumming is crisp, powerful, and full of personality. He hits with intention, never clutters, and always grooves. When he kicks into a fill, it’s like a lightning strike that snaps the whole room awake.

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The four stepped up and launched into a soul-searching service that hit harder than a revival tent struck by desert lightning!

Today’s two‑hour service rolled out more than fifteen chapters of amplified scripture. Highlights from today's service included: The congregation getting hit with Romero Delight, followed by the rebellious gospel of School’s Out. Then came a thunderous reading from the book of Heaven and Hell.

From the book of Krokus, they delivered Screaming in the Night, and from the book of Genesis, the congregation rose for Turn It On Again. A fiery passage from the book of STYXRenegade — brought the room to its feet.

And to close out today’s service, they slammed down the final verse with the almighty Ace of Spades.

By the time the final chord of Ace of Spades rattled the Copa Room, I felt lighter, clearer, and a whole lot more human. Whatever grime had built up from a month of reviews got blasted clean by two hours of amplified salvation. That’s the magic of the Rock ’n’ Roll church — you walk in carrying the weight of the world, and you walk out ready to take on the Las Vegas Strip again! 

And if you missed today’s service, don’t worry: the next revival hits every final Sunday of the month, when Pastor Freeman and his clergy return to deliver another electrified sermon!

Rock n' Roll Church Cleanses The Soul!

Gary England

Rock n' Roll Church


Las Vegas Tuscany Suites Casino Copa Room: Two Bands One Night Total Vegas Destruction!

 


Part two of my Saturday night (July 25th) music adventure is coming in hot. If you missed the first blast, catch part 1 here and get yourself up to speed. After soaking in two original‑music BadA$$ bands at the Artist Showcase Night at Sixx Gun Music, the night shifted gears and slammed straight into the Tuscany Suites Casino Copa Room — home turf for two bands every Sin City rocker knows by heart. Saints of Las Vegas and Children of the Grave (Black Sabbath tribute) hit the stage like thunder, two fully established forces of Vegas badassery that don’t need introductions, explanations, or hype. They just show up, plug in, and level the room!

As soon as The Saints of Las Vegas hit the stage, the whole room detonated. Chaos didn’t creep in — it erupted. Amps roared wide‑open, fans surged toward the stage like a Mojave dust storm ripping through town, and the Copa Room flipped from calm to full‑tilt rock mayhem in seconds. The Saints didn’t just start their set… they unleashed it, turning the night into the kind of wild, neon‑lit frenzy only Vegas bands know how to deliver. 

They blasted the night wide open with a killer run of crowd‑pleasers — Boys of Summer, Tragedy, Man in the Box, Life In The Fast Lane, She's Got Legs, ZZ Top, How Soon Is Now, Toys in the Attic, and Ace of Spades, just to name a few. It was a rapid‑fire barrage of hits, each one landing harder than the last, turning the room into a full‑tilt rock cyclone that only Vegas bands can conjure!

The Saints are straight‑up legendary in Las Vegas — a hometown rock institution that’s been lighting up stages and blowing out amps for years. And when they hit the Copa Room, the lineup was stacked with Sin City heavy hitters, each one bringing their own brand of grit, charm, and rock‑and‑roll fire.

John Ryan Robertson — Vocals

John Ryan Robertson is the spark plug out front, firing up every crowd with rock‑star charm and razor‑sharp charisma. His comedic grit and stage swagger keep the show moving like a runaway freight train. He’s the kind of frontman who owns the room the second he steps into the lights.

Brent Muscat — Lead Guitar

Brent Muscat brings world‑tour pedigree straight from his Faster Pussycat days, delivering riffs that hit with veteran precision. His tone is unmistakable, his solos slice through the room, and his presence screams pure rock lineage. When Muscat plugs in, the night shifts into high gear.

Michael “Doc” Ellis — Guitar

Doc Ellis is a guitar hero with desert‑forged grit and a blues‑heavy attack that commands attention. His playing is raw, powerful, and dripping with veteran swagger. He’s the quiet assassin onstage — until he unleashes a riff that stops the room cold.

Keith Trombino — Bass

Keith Trombino holds down the low end with thick, punchy bass lines that shake the floorboards. He plays with a heavy, no‑nonsense grit that gives the Saints their backbone. When Keith locks in, the whole band hits harder.

Pat Caruso — Drums

Pat Caruso drives the Saints with clean, powerful, dead‑on drumming that keeps every song tight. He’s the rhythmic anchor, the heartbeat behind the chaos. Pat’s precision gives the band its unstoppable momentum.

Put these five Vegas warriors on one stage and you don’t just get a show — you get a full‑scale Sin City detonation, the kind of rock explosion that proves The Saints of Las Vegas aren’t just legendary… they’re unstoppable. When these guys lock in, the whole room feels it — the lights seem brighter, the amps seem louder, and the crowd surges like the Strip on a Saturday night. It’s that rare, combustible chemistry where every player hits with maximum force, feeding off the neon, the noise, and the madness of Vegas itself.

This isn’t just a band firing on all cylinders — it’s a rock machine built from pedigree, grit, and decades of stage warfare. When The Saints unleash, the city doesn’t just listen… it bows.

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Next up came the dark‑side detonator — Children Of The Grave, the Ozzy‑chanting, Sabbath‑soaked wrecking crew that storms the stage like they were summoned straight from the underworld. This band doesn’t cover Black Sabbath… they resurrect it. The moment they hit the lights, the room shifts, the air thickens, and every fan feels that familiar jolt — the one that says you’re about to get blasted with the kind of heavy, doom‑laden power that made Sabbath immortal.

Children Of The Grave plays with a ferocity that would make Ozzy grin!

Their guitar madman grinds with that unmistakable Sabbath weight — thick, dirty, and heavy enough to shake the walls — while the bass rolls through the room like a full‑force Vegas quake under the Strip. The drums don’t just keep time; they hit with bunker‑busting intensity, every strike landing like a shockwave. And the vocals? Pure dark‑theater electricity, soaring and snarling with that eerie, iconic Sabbath vibe that grabs the crowd by the spine. Children Of The Grave doesn’t imitate; they duplicate!

This crew is the real deal — a Vegas powerhouse that doesn’t just honor Black Sabbath’s legacy; they ignite it. Every crushing riff, every rumbling low‑end blast, every spine‑rattling chorus feels like a resurrection of the godfathers of heavy metal. When Children Of The Grave storms the stage, Sin City gets a loud, undeniable reminder that Sabbath’s shadow still rules the night!

Last night, Children Of The Grave tore into the room with an unmistakable, heavy‑metal battle cry — opening with Paranoid, War Pigs, Wicked World, Mr. Crowley, Children Of The Grave, and Crazy Train, among other dark‑side classics. Each song hit like a chapter out of heavy‑metal scripture, the kind of tracks that didn’t just shape rock history — they rewired it.

Paranoid is the anthem that launched a thousand metal bands, a raw, frantic blast that defined the early sound of heavy music. War Pigs remains one of the most powerful anti‑war epics ever written, its grinding riffs and battlefield‑march rhythm still shaking audiences decades later. Wicked World dives into Sabbath’s blues‑rooted darkness, a reminder of how the band fused grit and doom into something entirely new.

When they dropped Mr. Crowley, the room lit up — Ozzy’s solo-era masterpiece, dripping with mystique and Randy Rhoads’ legendary guitar wizardry. Children Of The Grave itself is pure Sabbath rebellion, a pounding, apocalyptic warning wrapped in one of the heaviest riffs of its era. And Crazy Train? That’s the eternal Ozzy rallying cry — a high‑voltage shockwave that helped define modern metal and still electrifies crowds every time it hits.

Children Of The Grave didn’t just play these songs — they unleashed them, reminding Vegas why these tracks still stand as pillars of heavy‑metal history!

Who are these musicians who bring the music back from the grave?

Mike Yoder — Vocals

Mike Yoder channels Ozzy with a precision that borders on supernatural. He’s got that eerie vibrato, that wild‑eyed stage presence, and that unmistakable Sabbath snarl that grabs the crowd by the throat. When he steps to the mic, it doesn’t feel like a tribute — it feels like Ozzy himself just walked out of the shadows.

Max Rico — Lead Guitar

Max Rico brings the Tony Iommi fire with riffs that grind like steel and solos that slice through the room with doom‑laden authority. His tone is thick, heavy, and dripping with that classic Sabbath menace. Max doesn’t imitate Iommi — he summons him, delivering guitar work that feels forged in the same molten pit!

Keith Trombino — Bass

Keith Trombino flips into full dark‑mode here, blasting bass lines that rumble like a Vegas quake under the Strip. His low end is monstrous — thick, punishing, and locked in with the exact weight Sabbath demands. When Keith digs in, the whole room shakes like the gates of hell just cracked open!

Bryan Lorenzo — Drums

Bryan Lorenzo drives the band with bunker‑busting force, pounding out Sabbath’s iconic rhythms with deadly accuracy. His drumming hits like artillery — thunderous, relentless, and perfectly synced to the band’s dark‑side energy. Bryan doesn’t just keep time; he sets the battlefield!

Put these four together and Children Of The Grave becomes a full‑scale heavy‑metal resurrection — a dark, roaring, Vegas‑born tribute that doesn’t just honor Black Sabbath… it makes them proud. When Mike Yoder, Max Rico, Keith Trombino, and Bryan Lorenzo lock in, the whole room feels that seismic shift — the kind of energy that turns a tribute set into a ritual. The riffs get heavier, the air gets darker, and the crowd gets pulled straight into that Sabbath vortex where every note feels carved from the underworld.

This lineup doesn’t just recreate the classics — they weaponize them. They bring the weight, the menace, and the raw electricity that defined the birth of heavy metal, delivering it with a modern Vegas ferocity that hits harder than ever. Children Of The Grave is the kind of band that reminds Sin City why Sabbath’s legacy still towers over the genre like a monolith of doom!

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Once again, the Tuscany Suites Casino Copa Room proved why it’s one of the most beloved battlegrounds in the Las Vegas music scene. Management didn’t just book bands — they brought in the exact heavy hitters the fans crave, the kind of acts that turn a Saturday night into a full‑tilt rock riot. This venue is a gem: killer lights, chest‑thumping sound, and a bar staff that works with the speed and swagger of seasoned rock pros.

Fans love the Tuscany. Musicians love the Tuscany. And this rock writer — me — absolutely does too. It’s one of the few rooms in Vegas where every show feels like a celebration of the city’s loud, loyal, neon‑soaked music culture. The Local Las Vegas Music Scene!

Gary England

The Saints Of Las Vegas

Children Of The Grave

Tuscany Suites Casino




Inside The Heartbeat Of The Local Las Vegas Music Scene: Sixx Gun Music Hits Loud & Clear!

 Saturday Night, July 25th, 2026

One night. Four kicka$$ bands. Two venues. And now two full‑throttle blogs blasting your way. The local music scene was firing on all cylinders — so much noise, sweat, and neon‑lit energy that cramming it into a single article would be a crime against rock. There was so much kick’n happening across Vegas stages that it’s going to take a pair of full‑blown, high‑octane blog breakdowns just to shine the right amount of light on it.


This old rock writer still has plenty of fire left in the tank — four bands, two venues, one night, and not a single ounce of gas wasted. The first stop was Artist Showcase Night at Sixx Gun Music, where the spotlight burned bright on two killer original‑music bands. Opening the charge was Pistol ShoeBox, the new kids crashing the Vegas scene with a sound that doesn’t match anything you’ve heard in this town. Their look, their vibe, their whole sonic fingerprint is left‑of‑center in the best possible way. They’re fresh out of the gate, still hammering together their social media presence, but after last night’s spotless performance, they’re already fitting into the Vegas circuit like a bullet in a chamber.

Pictured L-R
John Packingham (Bass)
Marco Montiel (Guitar & Lead Singer)
Thomas Cornell (Drums)


Then came the heavy hitters — 5 Star Loser — a seasoned crew stacked with names the Vegas music industry knows by heart. Five major kicka$$ rockers who are anything but losers, roaring back after a long breather and reforming into a full‑throttle, booty‑kicking machine. They tore through over an hour of original tunes, no covers, no filler, just pure Vegas‑bred rock energy. If you needed a spark to ignite the night, these guys dropped a whole box of dynamite!


5 Star Loser Band Members L-R:

Andrew Spencer (Bass)

Daniel Margasa (Lead Vocals & Guitar)

Myron Carlos (On Drums)

Matthew Goroshko (Vocals & Guitar)

Patrick Vitagliano (Guitar & Backup vocals)

Sixx Gun Music

Sixx Gun Music isn’t just a store — it’s a full‑blown guitar cathedral, the kind of place that hits you in the chest the second you walk through the door. It feels like stepping into rock‑and‑roll heaven, where every wall is lined with the gear you’ve dreamed about, drooled over, or sworn you’d buy “one day.” Guitars, amps, pedals, accessories — it’s all there, shimmering under the lights like relics waiting for the next true believer. And just when you think you’ve seen it all, they crank the voltage higher with custom‑built, one‑of‑a‑kind axes that look like they were forged in a back‑alley workshop behind the Sunset Strip. Need repairs? They’ve got the wizards for that too. Need to lay down tracks? Their Las Vegas recording studio will knock your lights out and leave you wondering why you ever recorded anywhere else. Sixx Gun isn’t a shop — it’s a rock sanctuary built for players who live loud.

Sixx Gun Music is cranking the amps to eleven with the return of the Las Vegas Guitar Trade Show, storming back into the Silverton Hotel & Casino from November 6th through 8th. This isn’t just another gear expo — it’s the top dog, the cream of the crop, the full‑blown crème de la crème of guitar shows in the entire country. Three days of wall‑to‑wall axes, rare finds, custom builds, legendary brands, legendary bands, and enough six‑string madness to make any guitarist feel like they’ve stepped into the holy land of tone. If you live loud, this is the weekend you circle in red ink on your calendar, and guard with your life. See you there!

{My Take}

Sixx Gun Music stands tall as one of the true heartbeat hubs of the Vegas music scene — a place where guitars aren’t just sold, they’re celebrated. Walk in and you feel the charge immediately: walls packed with dream‑worthy axes, custom builds that look born from rock mythology, and a crew that treats musicians like family. It’s more than a shop; it’s a sanctuary for players, creators, and anyone chasing tone. Sixx Gun keeps the city loud, proud, and plugged in — the kind of place that reminds you why Vegas still rocks!

Part 2 Coming Soon!

Gary England




Saturday, July 25, 2026

Right Time Right Place And Work Your Butt Off: The Road To Discovery In The Music Industry

 


Classic rock and country don’t just lead the tribute & cover‑band world — they rule it like outlaw kings. The crowds crave it, Vegas management eats it up, and every weekend this town turns into a neon‑lit proving ground for musicians who are one lucky break away from the big stage. These players aren’t hobbyists; they’re what I call “Right Time, Right Place” musicians — the kind of artists who, when the right set of eyes and ears lock onto them, they disappear overnight and reappear on a tour bus headed straight for rock stardom! After conversations with some movers & shakers in the music industry, and a few heavy-duty rockers in the biz. Here is what they said.

Vegas doesn’t hand out fame — it tests you, breaks you in, and then dares you to rise above the neon noise. The musicians who make the leap from local legend to rising star are the ones who treat every stage like a launchpad and every crowd like a scouting session. This city is a pressure cooker for talent, and the decision‑makers — the producers, bookers, A&R hunters, festival curators — are always scanning for the next spark loud enough to shake the industry. The fast track isn’t about luck alone; it’s about showing up everywhere, sounding unmistakably like yourself, keeping your digital footprint razor‑sharp, and flooding the world with your music until the right ears finally lock in. Vegas rewards the bold, the relentless, and the artists who play like the spotlight is already theirs!

Local musicians who want to get seen by the power players of the music industry have to attack the Vegas grind like it’s a nightly audition for the rest of their lives. That means playing relentlessly — every bar, lounge, festival, jam night, anywhere a stage and a power outlet exist — because the more you show up, the more chances you create for the right set of eyes to land on you. It means carving out a signature sound that punches through the noise and makes people remember you after one song, not ten. It means keeping your social media sharp and professional, dropping high‑quality recordings that prove you’re the real deal, and getting your music on Spotify and every major platform so industry scouts can find you even when they’re not in the room. It means networking with intent, showing up at showcases and songwriter nights where gatekeepers actually gather, collaborating with other artists to expand your reach, and building a loyal local following that packs rooms and forces people to pay attention. In Vegas, the musicians who rise are the ones who stay loud, stay visible, and stay ready — because the moment opportunity walks through the door, you don’t get a second chance to hit that first note.

{My Take}

At the end of the day, breaking out of the local circuit isn’t magic — it’s momentum. The musicians who rise are the ones who grind harder, play louder, stay visible, and treat every night like the universe might be watching. Rock stardom has always been a cocktail of sweat, timing, and a little cosmic luck — but the legends remind us that luck only shows up for the ones who never stop swinging. As Tom Petty said, “You have to work hard. You have to give it everything.” And Billy Idol nailed it even cleaner: “Luck comes from working your ass off.” Keep pushing, keep playing, keep showing up — because in Vegas, the break comes fast, and the ones who earn it are the ones who never stop chasing the spark.

Gary England




Thursday, July 23, 2026

Stryper's Michael Sweet’s Message To A Divided World: Rock Respect And The Red‑White‑and‑Blue

 Thursday night, while I was cruising through Facebook, I landed on a post from Michael Sweet — singer, songwriter, guitarist, founding member of Stryper, and one of the most respected voices in the rock world. This is a guy who’s earned the admiration of the music community and the global stage. When Michael Sweet speaks, you don’t just scroll past — you stop, you listen, and you take in every word.

I’ve got nothing but respect for Michael Sweet — his music, his life, his convictions, and the way he and his band stand tall for what they believe in. He’s earned that respect from the rock community and from fans around the world, and I’m right there with them.

To keep things straight, here’s the post he shared — copy‑and‑pasted exactly as he wrote it — along with the slick graphic Michael put together himself.

I posted this yesterday. I’ve spent a good part of my morning blocking people & deleting some pretty horrible comments.
Some from people who live here who hate the flag and these colors, and some from people in other countries who also seem to hate the flag and its colors.
What is going on? I was born in the USA. I’m proud of this flag and its colors. If you want to come here and disrespect what this flag represents (and those who died for this flag), then expect to be blocked. I won’t put up with it. Ever!!
By posting this, I’m not disrespecting other countries. I’m simply paying respect to this country. I’m very patriotic and proud of our beautiful country. And, it just so happens that I was born on the 4th of July. Maybe God knew how much I would love this country and he blessed me to be born on that day, who knows🤷‍♂️
My point is, why would anyone have a problem with me posting something like this? My mind is blown🤯
If the Internet has shown me one thing, it is that this world needs Jesus now more than ever🙏"


Being a rock writer for 58 years, I’ve watched the whole ride — the highs, the lows, the wars, the love, the hatred, the peace, and, in these recent years, a growing wave of disrespect for our country and even for the One who created us all. Through all of that, Michael Sweet and Stryper have stood tall for more than four decades, pulling countless fans toward faith through the power of their music.

So when some folks pushed back against Michael’s red‑white‑and‑blue Stryper logo, I had to wonder: What’s suddenly so wrong with this country? Since when did freedom become something that hits people in the face? What’s so bad about the USA — or the colors that define it? Instead of unloading on Michael’s sharp, patriotic design, maybe the real question is what’s actually hitting people beneath the surface?

From where I’m standing, Michael called it straight — this world needs Jesus now more than ever!

For that, I stand with Michael Sweet & Stryper!

God Bless America! (And The World)

Gary England

The Psychology Behind the Performance: As A Rock Writer How I Look At The Show!

 My friends tell me that I look at life (And music) a little differently than others do. 

This might just be why!

In my early years, I spent more time studying psychology than English or writing, and it’s paid off every night I’m in a room full of musicians. I don’t just listen to a performance — I read it. I watch who steps forward, who hangs back, who commands the room, and who disappears into the shadows. The music industry is a living map of personality types. The Type A firestarters are easy to spot; they take the lead onstage, run the show offstage, and treat every fan interaction like part of the mission. The Type B cool‑rollers drift through the scene with a relaxed grin, keeping the vibe loose and the jams flowing. The Type C quiet operators stay focused, organized, and emotionally tucked in — the ones who make sure the gear works, the harmonies lock, and the chaos stays controlled. And then there are the Type D pressure‑carriers who feel every high and low like a shockwave, often working twice as hard because they care twice as much.

After decades of watching bands from dive bars to big stages, I’ve learned this: the music isn’t just in the notes — it’s in the personalities. Who leads, who follows, who connects, who hides, who mingles with fans, who vanishes backstage. Psychology taught me that every show is more than a performance. It’s a human puzzle, and once you know how to read the pieces, you can see the whole industry for what it really is.

To all my musician peeps: Which type are you?

Ever think about how you look at life and things? It's a big part of who you are!

Gary England

Wednesday, July 22, 2026

Primm Nevada Roars Back To Life: Sin City’s State‑Line Outpost Isn’t Dead Yet!

 


Primm, Nevada, just plugged itself back into the grid, and the desert is shaking like a stack of Marshalls waking from a long, dusty coma. At high noon today, Terrible’s is throwing the switch on Primm Valley Resort & Casino, lighting up 422 machines, 250 rooms, and a fully loaded William Hill Sportsbook like it’s a long‑lost tour stop finally getting its encore.

This isn’t some quiet reopening — this is a resurrection with attitude. Terribles swooped in earlier this month and yanked Primm off life support, saving 300+ jobs and giving the state‑line town a second shot at glory. The quick‑bites joint is open, the sports bar is ready to pour, and a new steakhouse is already rising like a backstage legend in the making. No resort fees, tier‑match rewards, fresh promos — they’re not just reopening, they’re swinging for the fences!

Buffalo Bill’s and Whiskey Pete’s are still sitting in the shadows, waiting for their cue, but Primm Valley is already back onstage, amps humming, lights warming up, and the crowd rolling in off I‑15. The town that almost flatlined is suddenly alive again — loud, proud, and ready to remind every Vegas‑bound traveler that the first stop on the Strip isn’t always in Las Vegas!

Primm’s back!!

The desert is rumbling. And the state line just got its swagger back!

{My Take}

Primm’s lights are back on, the desert is humming, and the state line just found its pulse again. If today’s reopening is the opening chord, the encore is going to shake the Mojave. 

Buckle up, Vegas — the road to Sin City just got loud again!

Gary England

2026 Las Vegas Guitar Trade Show: Who The Fans Want To See On Saturday Night November 7th

 


Las Vegas — Turn It Up!

Got a killer idea? This one’s a home run.

Who do YOU want ripping solos and melting faces on Saturday night, November 7, at the 2026 Las Vegas Guitar Trade Show?

Throw your dream pick in the comments or hit up the Las Vegas Guitar Trade Show on Facebook — and tag the artist so they know Sin City is dialing their number.

Las Vegas Guitar Trade Show Facebook Event Page

{My Take}

The 2026 Las Vegas Guitar Trade Show is built for the fans — the diehards who keep this town loud, electric, and unapologetically alive.

So, toss your favorites into the mix, tag the legends you want on that stage, and let’s craft a Saturday night lineup that rattles the Silverton Hotel Casino from the floorboards to the rafters.

Vegas is primed. The amps are humming. Time to crank it, Las Vegas.

Gary England

#LVGTS2026 #LasVegasGuitarTradeShow #VegasMusicScene #LiveMusicVegas #GuitarShow


Monday, July 20, 2026

The Rock‑Writer’s Survival Guide: High‑Voltage Promo Tactics For Bands Musicians & Events

 As a rock writer, I don’t just crank out stories about bands, musicians, and the wild circus of events they ignite — I track what happens after those pieces hit the stage. I watch who shares them, who ignores them, who weaponizes them, and who still doesn’t realize they’re holding free dynamite in their hands.

Because here’s the truth: every band, every guitarist, every drummer with a dream knows they should be using media to fuel their rise… but a whole lot of them still don’t have a clue how to squeeze the juice out of it.

So, here's my official built for bands, musicians, and event managers who want to squeeze every last drop of juice out of the media spotlight you’re getting. Here’s your Backstage Cheat Sheet — fast, simple, high‑voltage moves that turn media coverage into momentum!

 Every article, photo, shoutout, and video clip is free fuel. Your job is to burn it hot!

Hit the Ground Running

When a piece of media drops, don’t wait. Post it. Share it. Tag it. Momentum dies fast — you keep it alive.

Stretch the Spotlight

One post isn’t enough. Break the coverage into pieces:

  • A quote today

  • A photo tomorrow

  • A clip next week You’re not promoting once — you’re promoting in waves.

Tag Like a Pro

Writers, photographers, venues, promoters — tag them all. Tagging expands your reach and builds relationships. Relationships get you booked.

Build a Promo Rhythm

Consistency beats chaos. A simple cadence keeps fans engaged and algorithms awake:

  • Early week: Announcements

  • Midweek: Behind‑the‑scenes

  • Weekend: Live footage Repeat until famous.

Engage Loudly

Reply to comments. Thank people who share your stuff. Spotlight fans who post your merch or photos. Engagement is free — and it builds a tribe.

Use Media as Leverage

Send your coverage to:

  • Booking agents

  • Festival organizers

  • Radio hosts

  • Podcasters

  • Sponsors Media proves you’re worth their time.

Make Your Links Easy

One link. One hub. Music, videos, merch, tour dates — all in one place. If fans have to hunt, they bail.

Promote Like a Business

Clean graphics. Consistent logo. Professional photos. Your brand should look as good as your band sounds.

Collaborate Loudly

Cross‑promote with other bands. Share each other’s posts. Play shows together. Collabs multiply your reach without multiplying your workload.

{My Take}

Simply Said: This spotlight I’m throwing your way is free — but what you do with it determines whether it becomes a spark or a wildfire! 

Media: Use it, or you may just lose it!

Gary England


Friday, July 17, 2026

Country’s Bill Sanderson & Southern Rock’s Sweet Home Alabama Saddle Up At Viva Tequila Henderson To Benefit The Las Vegas High School & Jr High Rodeo Team Thursday Night July 16!

 

Pictured left: Bill Sanderson
Pictured right: Sweet Home Alabama & The Las Vegas High School & Jr High Rodeo Team

The Las Vegas music scene doesn’t just give back — it saddles up and rides in full force, and Thursday night in Henderson proved it. Country troubadour Bill Sanderson brought the twang, Sweet Home Alabama rolled in with that Southern‑rock thunder, and Viva Tequila Restaurant & Bar threw open its doors like a honky‑tonk ready for a throwdown, all to support the Las Vegas High School & Jr. High Rodeo Team.

From the first guitar lick, the place was jumping like a dance hall on a Saturday night. Twenty percent of every plate and pour went straight to the rodeo kids, and raffle tickets were whipping through the air like someone kicked up dust on a dusty backroad. We dug into onion rings, chicken strips, and fries, washed it down with ice‑cold drinks, and settled in for three-plus hours of country soul and Southern‑rock fire that kept the crowd shoulder‑to‑shoulder and loud enough to rattle the windows.

Inside Viva Tequila, the vibe hit that perfect crossroads — country comfort meeting Southern‑rock swagger. The twang warmed the room, the guitar grit sharpened it, and together they wrapped the crowd in that familiar, boots‑on‑the‑ground Americana glow. Every raffle ticket bought, every plate served, every chorus belted out felt like another spark tossed into the night.

This wasn’t just Vegas showing up — it was Viva Tequila, the musicians, and the community standing tall, lifting their young rodeo riders with every note, every cheer, every stomp of a boot on the floor.

With a packed house, food and drinks covering every table, and raffle tickets flying like rodeo arena confetti, Thursday night stayed alive from start to finish. The energy never dipped, the crowd never thinned, and the support never slowed. By the time the amps cooled, one thing was clear — Thursday night was a runaway win for the Las Vegas High School & Jr. High Rodeo Team, the kind of country‑and‑Southern‑rock‑soaked community victory that sends everyone home grinning!

{My Take}

The Las Vegas local music scene came riding in full force Thursday night, boots down and guitars up. Bill Sanderson brought that smooth, down‑south country croon — the kind that feels like a warm porch light on a summer night — while Sweet Home Alabama rolled in with Southern‑rock thunder that would make Lynyrd Skynyrd crack a proud grin. And Viva Tequila Restaurant & Bar swung its doors wide open, hearts even wider, turning the whole place into a desert‑side honky‑tonk with purpose.

It wasn’t just a show — it was a country‑and‑Southern‑rock throwdown for a cause, a night where twang met grit, community met rhythm, and Vegas proved once again it knows how to show up when it counts. For the Las Vegas High School & Jr High Rodeo Team.

For that, Vegas tips its hat to each and every one of you!

Y'all flat-out tore it up!

Gary England

#NationalNewsMedia #WorldwideEntertainmentNetwork #LasVegasReviewJournal #TheHendersonPatch





Thursday, July 16, 2026

Riding The Highs Surviving The Lows: The Music Biz Rollercoaster How Not To Fall Off

 Life’s a wild ride, man — every path you take is lined with peaks that make you feel ten feet tall and valleys that punch you right in the gut. I play poker on the side, and if you want a masterclass in emotional whiplash, sit at a table for a few hours. One minute you’re a legend, the next you’re wondering why the universe hates you.



And the music industry? Oh, brother… that’s a whole different beast.

It’s loud, it’s chaotic, it’s beautiful, and it can chew you up like a broken guitar string. I’ve watched killer musicians — real-deal talent, the kind that makes your spine tingle — get knocked so far off their game that they either walked away for a breather or bailed out completely. That’s the kind of heartbreak you don’t forget.

So, what’s the secret to surviving the storm without losing your soul? After digging through a few hours of research, swapping stories with one of my closest friends — a local psychologist who’s seen the backstage bruises up close — and mixing in a little of my own life mileage, here’s what I’ve learned.

Stay grounded — When the spotlight hits, it feels like you’re floating. When it shuts off, you can crash hard. The pros who survive know how to keep their boots on the ground even when their heads are in the clouds. It’s the difference between riding the wave and getting dragged by it.

Build your tribe — Every great musician has a backstage army: bandmates, friends, mentors, the bartender who’s seen it all. You need people who remind you who you are when the industry tries to tell you otherwise. Lone wolves burn out. Crews endure.

Protect your mental game — This business will mess with your head if you let it. My psychologist buddy said it straight: musicians are emotional athletes. You’ve got to train your mind like you train your chops — rest, boundaries, perspective, and knowing when to step back before you snap a string.

Remember why you started — When the grind gets ugly, go back to the spark. The first riff that made your chest vibrate. The first crowd that screamed your name. The first time you realized music wasn’t a hobby — it was oxygen. That memory is your compass when the industry tries to spin you around.

Adapt without selling your soul — The biz changes faster than a Vegas slot machine. Trends flip. Venues close. Algorithms rewrite the rules overnight. The survivors evolve — but they never let the machine rewrite their identity. Bend don’t break!

Play the long game — Overnight success is a myth sold to rookies. Real careers are built brick by brick, gig by gig, heartbreak by heartbreak. The ones who make it aren’t always the most talented — they’re the ones who refuse to quit when the road gets dark.

Celebrate the small wins — A killer rehearsal. A new fan. A song idea that hits you at 2 AM. These are the sparks that keep the fire alive. Stack enough of them, and suddenly you’re unstoppable!

{My Take}

(This post is dedicated to two awesome musicians (friends of mine) who have experienced the highs and lows of the biz! I love you both. And wish you all the luck in the world in your return to music, because the music biz needs ya, and so do I)!

When you strip away the noise, the egos, the late‑night doubts, and the industry chaos, it all comes down to this: music is a long, loud, beautiful fight worth showing up for. The storm will come — it always does — but if you’ve got your tribe, your purpose, and your fire intact, you’ll walk out stronger than you walked in. Keep your head up, keep your heart plugged in, and keep playing like the world needs your sound, because it does! I do too!

Gary England


Wednesday, July 15, 2026

Tribute Artists vs Original Music: Bringing Original Music To Light!

 The Vegas music scene is a wild, neon‑lit beast! Loud on the surface, louder underneath, and full of stories that never make it past the bar chatter. Everyone talks about tribute bands ruling Las Vegas while original music gets shoved behind the curtain, but I’ve been lucky enough to hear what really goes down. As a rock writer, I get the inside track on the locals who bleed their own songs into the desert air. Some of those tracks live only in their heads, some make it to the bar‑room stages, and a few Vegas bands cranking out their own original fire are perched right on the edge of blowing the doors off this town and launching themselves straight onto the long, winding highways of the touring circuit! $$$$

I’ve heard original tunes that hit harder than half the stuff being covered in this city. In my opinion, some of these songs are so strong that they stand a good chance of becoming tributes someday. A lot of these artists are already pushing their originals onto platforms like Spotify and Bandcamp, which is a killer start, but they still need ears, attention, and a spotlight that actually points them in the right direction to fans that dig the original songs.

Here's where I usually say it's My Take; this time, it's my little experiment with your help.

So, here’s the deal. I’ve got a little blog with a not‑so‑little audience, some friends in high places, and people who seem to pay attention when I talk.

Vegas musicians & bands:

If you’re out there grinding, writing, recording, and dropping original tracks, send me your links. Shoot me your songs, your contact info, and let’s talk. I’ll blast your music out to the world through my platform and make sure your originals don’t stay hidden in the shadows.

Vegas bands. Vegas songwriters. Vegas creators. If you’ve got the fire, I’ll help carry the flame!

It's on you now. Message me on Facebook or hit me up with an email: garyenglandemail@gmail.com

Gary England

facebook.com/garyenglandlv



Tuesday, July 14, 2026

Hit Hard Play Loud: Las Vegas Dirty Ratt Band Seeking Stage‑Dominating Drummer!



 In the loud, lawless underbelly of Las Vegas, Dirty Ratt — the city’s snarling, high‑octane tribute to RATT — is tearing open the gates and looking for a drummer immediately who can bring the kind of fire that shakes music venues' walls. We’re talking a heavy‑metal vibe, pro‑level precision, reliable gear, and the kind of explosive stage presence that channels the raw, relentless energy of Ratt's Bobby Blotzer himself. If you can hammer out those metal grooves with authority, throw down backing vocals, and deliver the kind of thunder that keeps Sin City awake, you’re already in the zone. Hit the links below to see what Dirty Ratt is all about, then reach out to Chris Miggiani for more info, because if you’ve got the power, Dirty Ratt wants you behind the kit driving this beast!

Dirty Ratt on Facebook 

Dirty Ratt YouTube

Message Chris Miggiani on Facebook 

Or Email Chris at: chris.miggiani@gmail.com

When Baseball Went Bananas: The Banana Ball Takeover



Banana Ball didn’t just arrive on the sports scene — it literally detonated like a rock‑and‑roll pyro blast behind home plate. Born in 2018 as a wild experiment from the Savannah Bananas — a scrappy summer‑league team founded in 2016 — the game grew from a near‑bankrupt idea into a full‑blown touring spectacle that now packs MLB stadiums coast to coast. 



Founder Jesse Cole, the yellow‑tux showman who sold his house to keep the team alive, built Banana Ball on one core belief: baseball should move fast, hit hard, and entertain like a stadium tour. Two‑hour time limits, points for innings, walk‑off dances, sprint‑style ball‑four chaos — it’s baseball re‑wired for adrenaline junkies and sports fans who want action, not downtime.

The popularity boom came from pure spectacle: choreographed player dances, the Party Animals rival squad, TikTok‑melting walk‑ups, and a fan‑first philosophy that treats every game like a rock show. Media outlets from ESPN to Sports Illustrated jumped on the story, and suddenly Banana Ball was selling out 17 MLB parks, NFL stadiums, and launching its own championship league. Jesse Cole himself is a walking fun fact — he proposed in a yellow tux, lives by “Fans First,” and channels equal parts P.T. Barnum and sports‑mad ringmaster. 

Click on pic to enlarge


To catch the madness live, check out these links for more info about the madness of the bananas. 

The Bananas on Facebook

Jesse Cole

The Bananas Ticket Exchange

The Bananas on Instagram

The Bananas on YouTube

Watching Banana Ball is pure fun — a neon‑bright, high‑octane blast of athleticism from finely tuned players who perform with the swagger of rock stars and the precision of elite competitors. As the Bananas like to say: “If it’s not fun, why do it?”

{My Take}

After 58 years of writing about every sport under the sun — pro leagues, minor leagues, dusty backfields, neon‑lit arenas, you name it — I thought I’d seen every curveball the sports world could throw. But one night, sitting in my living room with the TV humming in the background, I stumbled onto a game that didn’t just catch my eye… it grabbed me by the collar. Banana Ball wasn’t baseball as I knew it — it was baseball with a jet engine strapped to its back, a rock‑concert heartbeat, and athletes who move like they’re powered by lightning. I’ve covered champions, dynasties, heartbreakers, miracle seasons — but nothing hits quite like this!

Jesse Cole truly is doing everything right—with his bright yellow tux and larger-than-life enthusiasm, he’s become a role model for kids and adults alike. It’s not just about the game; it’s about creating joy and community, and he’s absolutely someone you can look up to for that! I hope to catch a game, or two the next time that the bananas are in Vegas!

So here it is, straight from a Vegas‑based lifer of the sports beat:

Banana Ball rules!

I Love The Bananas!

~Gary England~

#NationalNewsMedia #WorldwideEntertainmentNetwork #Baseball #sports #professional